New UK climate fintech Zero gears up for end-of-year launch

  • Launch Timeline: Zero, a climate-focused fintech based in Cardiff, Wales, plans to launch its full range of financial services by the end of 2024.
  • B Corp Certification: The start-up achieved B Corp certification in July 2024, demonstrating its commitment to social and environmental performance.
  • Services Offered:
    • Digital Account Services: Includes a Mastercard-powered debit card, personal current account, and a finance app focused on sustainability.
    • Sustainability Features: The app analyzes spending data to identify lifestyle choices impacting climate change and provides personalized solutions to help users reduce their carbon footprints.
  • Target Market: Aims to serve climate-conscious Gen-Z and Millennial consumers (ages 18 to 34), addressing a gap between digital finance and sustainability.
  • Funding and Ownership Model:
    • Seed Funding: Secured in 2023 from investors including the Development Bank of Wales and 24 angel investors.
    • Seed Extension Round: Currently seeking additional capital.
    • Community Option Scheme: Plans to share 20% of the business value with customers through this scheme.
  • Future Goals:
    • Banking Licence: Aims to secure a full UK banking licence to offer sustainable lending products.
  • Industry Activity: Recent notable funding rounds in the climate fintech space include Doconomy’s €34 million Series B, Climate X’s $18 million Series A, and Berlin-based Cloover’s $114 million seed round.
Laura M
Laura M
Laura is a financial reporter, editor, and researcher with a particular interest in fintech innovation, capital markets, and the evolving global banking landscape.

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